When I went to the San Diego Comic Con International 2006, I found out that Charles Martinett was going to be on autographing sessions over at the Nintendo booth, so I roamed there, playing some hours until 5:00 ticked on my digital watch. I started to make line in fear I lost the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that the event ensued: Meeting the SOUL of Mario Mario, the most recognized videogame figure (and Voice!) up to date.

I talked with some people in front of me. 1st we played some Mario Kart DS and then started to discuss about how Nintendo had revived the Videogame industry back in the eighties thanks tothe awful Atari games like Pac-Man (that version only) and E.T.(Compiled and “ready” to go in a mere 2 weeks!); about how Nintendo risked their jobs by giving it all and how Master Miyamoto came with Donkey Kong to revive videogaming from the ashes.

Then HE showed up. A medium/tall man, with a pinkish face and white, short hair, already sitted and waiting, like a ninja that was just waiting for the fans to zerg rush him. He made a little sign with his hand and the signing started off!

I was 6th in place and the very moment I stood in front of him he said “Hello!” in that unforgettable Mario64 voice. I couldn’t resist but to laugh and feel admiration at the same time. I shook hands with him and he signed some special edition Mario-themed stuff. I also asked him if he could sign my DS and my MarioKart DS cartridge; he pleasantly accepted. I venerated him once more and went my way, shocked by this Life Experience.

After the shock faded away, I returned to take a photo of him (D’uh).

But well, at least I have Proof!!